The felicitation volume, Kalhar (White Water-lily), honours the contributions of Prof Enamul Haque, a distinguished art historian and cultural activist of Bangladesh. It examines the art, archaeological heritage and architectural wealth of the region of the two Bengals -- Bangladesh and West Bengal -- towards which Prof. Enamul Haque has made significant contributions.

The volume discusses the archaeology, art and iconography, architecture, epigraphy, numismatics and religion of the Bengal region. Experts in the respective fields cover a vast historical canvas -- from the Chalcolithic cultures of early human civilisation to architectural perceptions of Europeans -- and a range of traditions, systems and views to present an all-encompassing treatment of the subject. Referring to a number of excavated sites and objects of Hindu, Buddhist, Mughal and Bengal Sultanate traditions, they survey the social and cultural features of their art and architecture and the influence of these. Jaina Ayagapattas or votive tablets; Visnu images, copper plates and temples of Hindu periods; images of the 28 Buddhas; Mughal paintings and architecture; Bengal Sultanate madrasah architecture and silver coins; and a host of inscriptions and texts of rare significance are all studied with the focus on deciphering the past glory and heritage of the region. It delves into the evolution of specific cultural and art traits in Bengal such as development of the embroidered quilt famous in Bengal. With extensive notes and numerous drawings of plans and tables, the book will be useful for scholars and general readers interested in the history and culture of the Bengal region.

The editors of the volume have authored numerous studies on architecture, iconography, epigraphy and numismatics, and religious traditions in India.